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Firm size differences in financial returns from flexible work arrangements (FWAs)

Author

Listed:
  • Bernice Kotey

    (University of New England)

  • Isaac Koomson

    (University of New England
    Network for Socioeconomic Research and Advancement (NESRA))

Abstract

Firms of differing sizes make FWAs available to employees, with varying performance outcomes. Research on the financial outcomes of FWAs is sparse and tends to focus on large firms. This study investigates the associations between FWAs and return on labour (ROL) as well as the relevance of these associations to small, medium and large firms, using a sample of 3244 employees working in 602 businesses. The findings show negative associations between flexible leave as FWA and ROL for all firms. Job-sharing has financial value for firms with 100 or more workers, with the majority being females but it is not feasible in small firms due to limited employee numbers. Flexible work hours pay off for firms with up to 99 employees but the financial outcomes become negative thereafter, requiring closer monitoring in larger firms. The findings indicate that firm size is relevant to FWA regulations and negotiations with implications for employers, employees and policymakers.

Suggested Citation

  • Bernice Kotey & Isaac Koomson, 2021. "Firm size differences in financial returns from flexible work arrangements (FWAs)," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 56(1), pages 65-81, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:sbusec:v:56:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1007_s11187-019-00201-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s11187-019-00201-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Hugo Castro-Silva & Francisco Lima, 2023. "The struggle of small firms to retain high-skill workers: job duration and the importance of knowledge intensity," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 60(2), pages 537-572, February.
    2. Filippos Maraziotis, 2024. "Flexibility for equality: Examining the impact of flexible working time arrangements on women's convergence in working hours," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 62(2), pages 410-445, June.

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